Let’s Talk About Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad is a simple yet effective accessory designed to enhance the ergonomics and recoil management of your AR-15 or M-16 rifle. Manufactured by Choate Tool, this butt pad promises added length of pull, improved comfort, and increased control. For shooters like myself who often find standard AR stocks too short, this product presents a potentially valuable solution.
I’ve always struggled with the length of pull on my AR-15. Standard stocks force me into a compressed shooting posture, impacting my stability and accuracy. I needed a solution that didn’t involve replacing the entire stock. The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad seemed like an affordable and straightforward option to address this issue.
Upon unboxing, the butt pad felt solid and well-made, especially for its price point. The black polymer material had a slightly textured surface, which I hoped would provide a good grip against my shoulder. The overall design was simple and utilitarian, which aligned with my expectations for a functional accessory.
Compared to options like adjustable stocks with extended lengths or aftermarket recoil pads from brands like Magpul, the Choate Tool offering is significantly more budget-friendly. I opted for this pad, sacrificing some adjustability for the sake of simplicity and cost savings. Initial impressions were cautiously optimistic; its straightforward design and sturdy feel gave me hope that it would perform as intended.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad involved several hours of target shooting at distances ranging from 50 to 200 yards. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing. Installation was relatively easy, sliding onto my A2 stock with some needed force.
The added length of pull made an immediate difference in my shooting posture. I felt less cramped and more stable, which translated to tighter groupings on the target. The butt pad also provided a slightly softer recoil impulse. This helped mitigate shoulder fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
One minor issue arose: the pad didn’t fit perfectly flush with the A2 stock, leaving a small gap. However, this didn’t affect its functionality. The provided clamps tightened the fit, but the gap remained visible.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad has held up surprisingly well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear despite frequent use in both indoor and outdoor range environments. The polymer material has proven to be quite durable.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any accumulated dirt or grime. The pad has maintained its shape and grip, even after exposure to varying temperatures. Compared to my previous experiences with similar products, this butt pad has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad
Specifications
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad offers a simple design for a specific purpose. It is crafted from durable black polymer. Here are some key specifications:
- Manufacturer: Choate Tool.
- Color: Black.
- Gun Model Compatibility: M16 and AR-15 platforms with A2-style stocks.
- Country of Origin: USA.
The key specification is its extended length, providing a longer length of pull for shooters who need it. The durable polymer construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use. These specifications translate to a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience, particularly for taller individuals or those with longer arms.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad performs its primary function effectively: extending the length of pull on an AR-15 or M-16. This improves shooter comfort and control. Its main strength lies in its simplicity and ease of installation.
One minor weakness is the imperfect fit on some A2 stocks, as evidenced by user feedback. This can result in a small gap. However, the overall performance remains satisfactory for its intended purpose. It meets expectations, providing a cost-effective solution for improving ergonomics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad features a straightforward, no-frills design. The black polymer material is lightweight and provides a decent grip against the shoulder. The build quality is solid, though the fit could be more precise.
The design is user-friendly with no complex mechanisms or adjustments required. Installation is relatively simple, although it may require some force to slide the pad onto the stock. There is a minimal learning curve; its function is immediately apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad is designed to last, with its durable polymer construction. Under normal use conditions, it should withstand years of service without significant degradation. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
There are no small or intricate parts that could easily break or require replacement. The simple design contributes to its overall longevity and reliability. This butt pad offers a long-term solution for improving the ergonomics of your AR-15 or M-16.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad is a standalone accessory with limited customization options. It doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware (clamps). It’s primarily designed to extend the length of pull of the existing stock.
It doesn’t directly interface with other common AR-15 accessories such as slings or optics. Its compatibility is limited to A2-style stocks. While no specific accessories are required, some users might consider adding a cheek riser to further optimize their shooting posture, especially if using optics.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad
Pros
- Affordable solution for increasing length of pull.
- Durable polymer construction ensures longevity.
- Simple installation with minimal tools required.
- Improved shooting comfort for taller individuals or those with longer arms.
- Enhanced recoil management due to increased surface area.
Cons
- Imperfect fit may result in small gaps on some A2 stocks.
- Limited adjustability compared to adjustable stocks.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad?
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad is perfect for AR-15 and M-16 owners who find their standard stock too short. It is ideal for taller shooters or those with longer arms who experience discomfort or instability with a standard length of pull. It’s also suitable for budget-conscious individuals seeking a simple and effective ergonomic upgrade.
This product may not be the best choice for shooters who require a highly adjustable stock. Those prioritizing a seamless, factory-fit appearance might also be disappointed by the potential for small gaps. Shooters who need adjustability should look at fully adjustable stocks.
Conclusion on Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad
The Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad is a functional and affordable accessory. It effectively addresses the issue of a short length of pull on standard AR-15 and M-16 rifles. Its durable construction and simple installation make it a practical choice for shooters seeking an ergonomic upgrade without breaking the bank.
The value proposition is strong; at its price point, it offers a significant improvement in comfort and control. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to extend their stock’s length of pull. If you are looking for simple and affordable solution for your AR, give the Choate Tool M-16/AR-15 Extended Butt Pad a try!